Liverpool youngster James McConnell has revealed he’s learning from former Everton man Davy Klaassen while on loan at Ajax.
[Voetbal International](https://www.vi.nl/nieuws/mcconnell-vertelt-welke-ajax-spelers-hem-verrast-hebben) have an interview with the Liverpool midfielder today. He is spending the season on loan at Ajax.
The 21-year-old is highly rated at Anfield, having recently signed a new deal at Liverpool following years coming through the ranks in the youth sectors at the club.
He’s also made 13 appearances in the senior team, with Jurgen Klopp handing him his debut in 2023 when he was 19 years old.
McConnell was not part of Arne Slot’s plans this season, though. That’s led to a season-long loan deal at Ajax, where Liverpool are hoping he can get regular playing time and experience in the Eredivisie.
That has proved to be consistent breeding ground for talent throughout the years, and the Reds are hoping the youngster will benefit from it.
He’s yet to get going at the club yet, with just two appearances worth 50 minutes to his name under John Heitinga so far. He, though, is still learning behind the scenes, and that includes watching former Everton man Davy Klaassen closely.
_“I have to mention Davy Klaassen too; it really helps me to watch him,”_ he said.
_“He has a fantastic football mind; he’s so clever. When you play against him, he tries to pull you out of position to create space, which is very clever._
_“You have to stay alert and not just follow him everywhere; sometimes you have to choose to defend the spaces._
_“I’ve only been here a few weeks, but I feel like I’ve already developed quite a few things. I hope to continue that for the rest of the season. I have to work hard to help the team.”_